Foundation commits to combating child trafficking, supporting vulnerable

On Dec 22, 2024

The Blossom Pathway Care Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to combating child trafficking and supporting vulnerable children across the country.

The Foundation’s Project Manager, Fumilayo Sholape, said this during an outreach programme at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Durumi, FCT, Abuja, on Saturday.

Founded with a vision to address child trafficking and vulnerability, the Foundation has focused its efforts on IDP camps, which are particularly at risk of trafficking.

According to Sholape, the Foundation aims to address the significant challenges faced by more than 1,700 children at the camp, including educational deficits and the looming threat of trafficking.

Sholape emphasised the Foundation’s commitment to advocacy, aid, and education for vulnerable children.

“Over the past few months, we have been visiting to provide food, clothing, and education.

“Today, we are here to celebrate the festive season with them, bringing food, clothing, and love to show our support and care for these children and their mothers,” she said.

She also raised concerns about the severe lack of educational resources at the camp, with only two teachers available for more than 1,700 children.

“During our last visit, we spoke to about 50 children, mostly girls. Many expressed dreams of becoming doctors but were stuck in arts classes due to a lack of resources and guidance.

“This gap in education has led the foundation to prioritise improving access to quality education for the children.
“The foundation is partnering with the police, military, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and female military veterans to ensure the safety and welfare of children during outreach programmes and to strengthen anti-trafficking initiatives.
“Our primary approach is awareness on prevention and protection. By educating people about child trafficking, we aim to reduce its prevalence,” Sholape noted.

She said the visit also served as an opportunity to bring joy to the children during the festive season.

“The food, drinks, clothing, and music we provided today brought smiles to the children’s faces,” she said.

The Foundation’s Secretary, Tolulope David, highlighted that the main goal was to bring joy and happiness to the children, particularly at this yuletide season.

“IDP camps are particularly vulnerable to child trafficking, and we want to educate the children on what trafficking is and how they can protect themselves. The government needs to prioritise places like this, ensuring their safety is included in the national budget.
“Every child deserves love, education, care, and support from society. We need everyone’s help to spread awareness about child trafficking and its dangers,” David said.

NAN/Wumi